<p>That is really funny. My father also went to USC, and I never thought of the Trojan mascot that way. Well i guess it’s better to be a Trojan than a Bruin, considering we raped them 50-0 at football last year. But to concur with @warblersrule, Duke is the superior academic institution, with USC climbing in the ranks. And yes, while Duke is not a “southern” school, it does have aspects of the south, as it is in a southern town. In regards to the person who is really important here, the one making the decision, go wherever you feel you will be the happiest! In the long run, it will most likely not matter whether you choose Duke (and get a kickass basketball experience) or USC (and get a kickass football experience).</p>